14 militants killed in Upper Orakzai, Kurram Agency

Clashes between insurgents, security forces on the rise.

PESHAWAR: At least 14 militants and one security personnel were killed in separate incidents in Upper Orakzai Agency and Central Kurram Agency on Monday, sources said.

Security forces attacked the militant hideouts through gunship helicopters during an ongoing operation in the Orakzai Agency. They claimed to have killed 10 militants and destroyed three of their hideouts.

In a separate incident, one soldier was killed when militants fired at them in the Central Kurram Agency, and the forces killed four militants in retaliation.

Clashes between militants and security forces are on the rise, resulting in deaths on both sides, as military operations continue in the areas.

An operation was launched in Orakzai Agency in March last year and in Kurram this summer. Security forces also launched a massive crackdown against militants in Upper Orakzai Agency a few weeks ago to clear out remaining parts of the agency.

Security forces have increased their advances in the agencies over the past few days. Drastic security measures have been adopted in the region, with cell phone services suspended in the nearby district of Hangu and adjoining areas.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 27^th, 2011.